Heri Temple 

Introducing Wahji Temple

Located 90 kilometers northwest of the county seat and 2 kilometers south of the current Heri Township Government, Zhihejia Temple is a Nyingma sect temple that served as a tent temple in its early years.

Around the 11th year of the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty (1831), the first Deldun (meaning treasure digger) Living Buddha of the temple, Deqin Zhuoduo, built the Tufang Temple on Ningxiu Wojie Edonlang Mountain with the support of Angqin, the chief of the Her tribe.

After that, the second Deldun Mupangawa Luozhe (born in 1862) expanded the scripture hall, erected Buddha statues, painted murals, and established a datsang to start the system of preaching sutras. The monastery developed greatly and the number of monks reached more than 300.

During the reign of the third Deldon Jigme Sangyehe Tenzin (also known as Jigme Sangjie Tenzin, born in 1893), the temple was moved to its current location due to difficulties in obtaining drinking water and looting.

The fourth generation Deldun Jinmei E'sai, a native of Longwu Village, Tongren, was born in 1935. He is currently the vice chairman of the Zeku County CPPCC.

Climate and best time to travel

Zeku County has a plateau continental monsoon climate, belonging to the plateau subarctic humid climate zone. Its general climatic characteristics include the same seasons for rain and heat, abundant and concentrated precipitation, low temperatures, insufficient heat, short frost-free periods, long sunshine hours, and strong solar radiation. The cold season is long, dry, cold, and windy, while the warm season is short and cool.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Herit Temple is renowned for its Tibetan opera and stone sutra wall. The most famous Tibetan opera performance is "Songtsen Gampo." The stone sutra wall, 3 meters high and over 200 meters long, is constructed entirely of stone slabs inscribed with Buddhist scriptures.

The main texts are the Kangyur, the Tengyur, and the Mahāprajnaparamita Sutra, totaling approximately 200 million characters. The stone tablets are also inscribed with over 2,000 images of various sizes, including Buddha statues, patterns, and paintings of Buddhist stories. The clear and neat handwriting and exquisite and expansive paintings make them rare stone carvings, earning them the title of "World Wonder of Stone Writing."

Tickets

free

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Most Popular FAQs for Heri Temple 

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Heri Temple is an important Tibetan Buddhist temple in Huangnan, Qinghai, known for its historical and spiritual significance. It has served as a religious and cultural center for local Tibetan communities for centuries.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai. Accessible by private car or taxi from nearby towns. Local buses may serve the area, though schedules are limited.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is typically open from early morning to late afternoon. Best visiting times are from May to September when weather conditions are favorable.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance to Heri Temple is generally free. Any fees for specific areas or events can usually be paid onsite.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is not required for general visits. For guided tours or cultural experiences, booking a few days in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 hours to explore the main temple buildings and surroundings; more time if attending ceremonies or exploring nearby paths.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Main prayer hall with religious statues and murals.
• Courtyards and smaller meditation halls.
• Exterior areas decorated with prayer flags and local artwork.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Local guides may be available in Mandarin or Tibetan. Audio guides are not typically offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Temple courtyards with colorful prayer flags.
• Elevated viewpoints showing the temple against mountain backdrops.
• During morning or late afternoon light for best photography conditions.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, visit the main hall, explore side chapels and courtyards, then walk around the outer grounds to enjoy landscape views and riverside paths.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not typically available. Special tours may be arranged through local guides for cultural experiences or religious festivals.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The temple is usually peaceful, especially on weekdays. Weekends and festival days attract more visitors and pilgrims.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities include small rest areas and toilets. Food stalls may be available nearby, but visitors should carry water and snacks for longer visits.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Accessible for children and elderly with care. Some areas may have steps or uneven terrain, limiting accessibility for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended for donations, purchases, or small fees. Card or mobile payments are generally not widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local Tibetan eateries are available nearby offering traditional dishes. No large cafes or restaurants are within the temple grounds.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian Tibetan dishes are commonly available. Vegan and halal options may be limited, so checking locally is recommended.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses and small hotels in nearby Huangnan towns.
• Traditional Tibetan inns for cultural experiences.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Nearby Tibetan villages and monasteries.
• Scenic river valleys and mountain trails for short hikes.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops may sell Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, and locally made jewelry near the temple.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Private car or taxi is the most convenient way to reach nearby towns or other attractions. Local buses may be available but are infrequent.